Q’iij Metaphysics: Vico’s Theologia Indorum and the Gods, Ancestors, and Idols of the 16th Century K’ichee’ Mayas

Author

Phillip Salazar, University of New Mexico - Main CampusFollow

Publication Date

Summer 7-4-2021

Abstract

Domingo de Vico completed the Theologia Indorum, a K’iche’ Christian manuscript, in Guatemala in 1554. In the manuscript, Vico distinguishes between the idols, ancestors, and gods of the K’iche’s. This paper shows that Vico believed the idols to be inanimate objects, ancestors to be the older generations that have passed away, and gods to be demons. This paper then develops a theory of animist ontology for the K’iche’s. Using that ontological theory, this paper argues that, for the K’iche’s, their idols and gods were indistinguishable and that their ancestors were still alive, present, and active among them.

Language

English

Keywords

K'iche' Mayas, Theologia Indorum, Animism, Gods, Idols, Ancestors

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Latin American Studies

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Latin American Studies

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Angelica Serna Jeri

Second Committee Member

Dr. Joshua Shapero

Third Committee Member

Dr. Rosa Vallejos Yopan

Recommended Citation

Salazar, Phillip. "Q’iij Metaphysics: Vico’s Theologia Indorum and the Gods, Ancestors, and Idols of the 16th Century K’ichee’ Mayas." (2021). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/ltam_etds/53